Soak Up Sunshine
Warm Weather Outdoors
This is the Adirondacks
Blue skies, clear waters, and miles to wander
The mountains, rivers, and lakes surrounding Saranac Lake aren’t just part of the view, they’re an open invitation. When the weather warms up, locals and visitors alike head outside to make the most of long days, fresh air, and easy access to it all. Summer is the perfect time to step into the landscape and see where it takes you. New to outdoor recreation in the mountains? You’re in the right place. In Saranac Lake, adventure starts right in town, with trails, waterways, and scenic spots just minutes away. Need gear? Local outfitters make it easy to get set up so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
By foot
From downtown, take a short walk to Riverside Park at the intersection of Main Street and Route 3, where you’ll find the shores of Lake Flower. This scenic stretch of water, part of the Saranac River, is framed by surrounding mountains. From left to right, you’ll spot Mount Baker, McKenzie, Haystack, and Scarface, all part of the Saranac Lake 6ers. If you’re looking to turn that view into your first adventure, start with Mount Baker. Located right in the village, it’s an ideal beginner-friendly hike, and the summit rewards you with sweeping views of the High Peaks that make the effort well worth it.
By water
Just down the road from Riverside Park, the Lake Flower boat launch is a great starting point for anything from a quick outing to an overnight adventure. Paddle or motor away from downtown and you’ll soon find yourself on Oseetah Lake, an ideal destination if you want to be back in time for dinner.
Continue on and you’ll pass a couple of free campsites before entering a particularly scenic stretch of the Saranac River. This area is rich with wetlands, wildlife, and quiet pockets to explore, along with a few more campsites and small ponds. After passing under Route 30, the route opens up into Lower Saranac Lake, a beautiful, island-dotted waterbody with opportunities for island camping.
By rock
There are a handful of places to climb near Saranac Lake, but none are more popular than the McKenzie Boulders. Tucked just outside the village, this area is a sprawling collection of massive glacial erratics scattered through the forest. The boulders offer a wide range of climbing opportunities, from beginner-friendly problems to more technical challenges, making it a go-to spot for climbers of all levels. Even if you’re not climbing, it’s a fascinating place to explore, with winding paths, towering rocks, and a quiet, tucked-away feel that invites you to wander and discover.
